Get Out and Celebrate Kids to Parks Day in Southern Minnesota

When I was a kid my parents loved to take us to various local and state parks for an afternoon getaway or on our summer vacations. I really loved tramping through the woods on the hiking trails, swimming at the beaches or searching for a cascading waterfalls or a hidden cave. Along the way, my Dad would point out certain plants, trees, birds and animals and tell us what they were. Sometimes we would come to a clearing in the woods that would be filled with flowers and sunlight and in those moments it felt like heaven on Earth.

This Saturday, May 21, get the kids out of the house and give them a chance to experience these magical moments on the sixth annual Kids to Parks Day. It's estimated by the National Park Trust that 600,000 people will be taking part in events across the nation on this day of celebration. This year promises to be extra special as the the National Park Service turns 100 on August 25.

Whether you're visiting a state, national or local park, children and their families can pledge to participate in this event at kidstoparks.org and possibly win prizes, post pictures and more.

One of the local events is Party in the Park at Manthey Park in Owatonna this Saturday from 11AM to 1PM. Enjoy activities such as a bounce house and crafts in the pavilion. Purchase lunch and treats from the Godfather Pizza truck and Kona Ice.

I hope to see you out and about enjoying the day with your kids or grandkids during the sixth annual Kids to Parks Day this Saturday, May 21.